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PTG → JNB
Which side of the plane to sit from Polokwane International Airport (Potgietersrus) to OR Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the South African Highveld transition, including the rugged Waterberg periphery and the iconic urban skylines of Pretoria and Johannesburg during the descent.
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Mokopane Mines
Large-scale platinum and lime mining operations visible shortly after takeoff from Polokwane.
Waterberg Biosphere
The ancient, weathered mountain range to the west, known for its unique biodiversity and rugged sandstone formations.
Pretoria Landmarks
Clear views of the Union Buildings and the Voortrekker Monument as the flight passes over the administrative capital.
Sandton & Joburg Skyline
On clear days, the 'richest square mile in Africa' and the distant Hillbrow Tower are visible during the descent into JNB.
The right side is unbeatable for urban photography. Choose this side for late afternoon flights to catch the 'Golden Hour' light hitting the Pretoria skyline. On the standard arrival route (usually via the STV VOR), you will pass directly west of the city center.
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Wolkberg Wilderness
Distant views of the northernmost reaches of the Drakensberg escarpment, characterized by dramatic peaks and quartzite krans.
Highveld Agriculture
A patchwork of maize and sunflower fields that define the agricultural heartland of the Limpopo and Mpumalanga border.
Cullinan Diamond Mine
Look for the massive open-pit mine near Pretoria, famous for producing some of the world's largest diamonds.
Bronkhorstspruit Dam
A significant body of water popular for recreation, visible as the aircraft begins its final approach sequence into Gauteng.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the harsh western sun. This side is better for spotting the rural-to-industrial transition of the East Rand. Keep an eye out for the distinctive turquoise waters of mine tailings dams near the end of the flight.
Get eSIMs for South Africa
Get eSIMs for South AfricaDistance: 283 km (176 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 28 min
Departure: PTG (-23.845269, 29.458615)
Arrival: JNB (-26.1392, 28.246)
Route Type: Domestic
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